Goodbye Grandma

For the most part, moving to the other side of the world is a great adventure. There are so many new places to explore, new customs and traditions to celebrate and even the most simple every day things can become an adventure - or a challenge depending on how you look at it.

But then there are times that being so far away from your family and friends just sucks.

Like today.

Today my Grandma passed away peacefully in her nursing home after suffering from a stroke over the weekend. I couldn't be there to say goodbye with the rest of my family. I couldn't be there to give her one last hug. I couldn't be there to tell her I love her one last time. I can't be there with my family to mourn her passing and to celebrate her wonderful life. I can't be there for one last goodbye at her funeral.

Today living so far away just sucks.

But as much as it sucks I know that Grandma was proud of her family and the adventures and lives that we've made for ourselves, no matter how far away from home that may be. With six children, fifteen grandchildren and thirteen (and a half) great-grandchildren she always had plenty of love to go around and she made each and everyone of us feel so important.

Knowing that Grandma is at peace and reunited with my Grandpa after nine years is a thought that keeps me positive.

Goodbye Grandma. We love you and will miss you always.

The girls and I with Grandma, January 2011

Take me out to the ballgame...

Ok, ok, so that is probably the most overused title when it comes to things baseball related but I just couldn't help myself.

Last Sunday we attended our first baseball game as a family. Kim had been a to a few games with workmates but the girls and I were total newbies when it came to "America's favourite pastime".
Kim had previously attended San Francisco Giants games but this time we supported our local team and attended an Oakland A's vs Cleveland Indians game at the Oakland Coliseum.

Lola having a ball at the game!

Shrinky Dinky Doo (Part 2)

Remember that little Shrinky Dink family I posted about yesterday? Well, they're now holding hands and adorning Ava as a necklace.

One-of-a-kind Shrinky Dink family necklace